How to Replace Battery in Subaru Key Fob: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction: How to Replace Battery in Subaru Key Fob

If your Subaru key fob has stopped working or the range has decreased, it’s likely time for a battery replacement. Understanding how to replace battery in Subaru key fob is an essential skill for any Subaru owner. Whether you drive a Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, or Legacy, changing the key fob battery is a quick and affordable process that you can easily do at home.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each step, explain which battery your Subaru uses, and offer tips to extend your key fob’s lifespan. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to replace the battery in a Subaru key fob safely and efficiently.

Why Knowing How to Replace Battery in Subaru Key Fob Matters

Modern Subaru vehicles rely heavily on keyless entry and push-start systems. When your key fob battery weakens, you might notice signs like:

• The remote not locking or unlocking doors

• The push-to-start button not responding

• Reduced signal range

• A warning message on the dashboard

Learning how to replace battery in Subaru key fob ensures you’re never stranded or inconvenienced by a dead remote. It also saves you the cost and time of visiting a dealership for a simple fix.

What You Need Before You Start

Before you begin, gather a few simple tools and materials. These will make the battery replacement process smooth and hassle-free.

Tools and Materials:

• A small flat-head screwdriver or plastic pry tool

• A new coin-cell battery (usually CR2032 or CR2025)

• A clean, soft cloth to protect your fob from scratches

Always check your Subaru owner’s manual to confirm the exact battery type. Using the wrong battery could damage the key fob or reduce performance.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Replace Battery in Subaru Key Fob

Let’s break down the process of how to replace battery in Subaru key fob into clear, simple steps. Depending on your Subaru model, the design might vary slightly, but the overall method remains similar.

Step 1: Remove the Mechanical Key

Start by pressing the small release button on the back of your key fob. Pull out the mechanical key that’s hidden inside. This key is used for manual entry if your key fob battery dies completely.

Step 2: Open the Key Fob Case

Using your flat-head screwdriver or plastic pry tool, carefully insert it into the small gap where the mechanical key was removed. Gently twist the tool to separate the two halves of the key fob case.
Avoid using too much force, as this can crack the plastic. Take your time to prevent damage.

Step 3: Locate and Remove the Old Battery

Once open, you’ll see a small round battery secured inside the fob. Note the battery’s orientation (positive side facing up or down).
Carefully lift it out using your tool or fingers. Avoid touching the new battery’s surface with bare hands to maintain battery life.

Step 4: Insert the New Battery

Place the new battery into the slot, matching the polarity of the old one. Typically, the positive (+) side faces up. Press it gently into place until it’s secure.

Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob

Snap the two halves of the key fob back together. Ensure all edges are properly aligned and tightly sealed. Insert the mechanical key back into its slot.

Step 6: Test the Key Fob

Now that you’ve learned how to replace battery in Subaru key fob, it’s time to test it. Stand near your vehicle and press the lock or unlock button.
If everything works correctly, your Subaru should respond instantly. If not, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the casing is closed properly.

Subaru Models and Their Key Fob Batteries

Different Subaru models might use slightly different key fob batteries. Below is a quick reference guide to help you identify the right one:

Always verify with your vehicle’s manual or check the current battery before purchasing replacements.

How Often Should You Replace the Battery in Subaru Key Fob?

On average, Subaru key fob batteries last between 2 to 3 years. Factors like frequent use, weather conditions, and battery quality can affect lifespan.
If your vehicle is slow to respond or you see a “key fob battery low” message, it’s time for a replacement.

Learning how to replace battery in Subaru key fob will help you stay proactive and avoid being locked out unexpectedly.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Subaru Key Fob Battery

Here are a few expert tips to help you make the most of your key fob battery:

1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Heat or cold can drain battery power faster.

2. Store Fob Away from Electronics: Devices like smartphones or microwaves can interfere with signals.

3. Don’t Press Buttons Unnecessarily: Each press uses battery energy, so avoid accidental presses.

4. Replace with Quality Batteries: Use trusted brands like Panasonic, Energizer, or Duracell.

By following these simple habits, you can minimize the frequency of replacements.

Common Mistakes When Replacing Subaru Key Fob Batteries

While the process is straightforward, some common mistakes can cause problems:

• Installing the battery upside down

• Using the wrong size or voltage battery

• Failing to properly close the key fob casing

• Touching the battery’s surface, leading to corrosion

When learning how to replace battery in Subaru key fob, make sure to follow each step carefully to avoid these issues.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’ve replaced the battery but your Subaru key fob still isn’t working, there might be another issue. Possible causes include:

• Internal circuit damage

• Faulty buttons

• Battery terminal corrosion

In such cases, visiting a Subaru dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith is the best option. They can test the fob’s signal and reprogram it if needed.

Conclusion: Mastering How to Replace Battery in Subaru Key Fob

Knowing how to replace battery in Subaru key fob saves you time, money, and frustration. It’s a simple maintenance task every Subaru owner can handle in minutes with basic tools. Whether it’s a Subaru Outback, Forester, or Crosstrek, this guide gives you the confidence to keep your key fob functioning like new.

So the next time your key fob starts to fail, don’t panic—just follow these steps and enjoy the convenience of keyless driving once again.